Resettable safety shield for medical needles

ABSTRACT

A medical needle shield apparatus is provided that includes a needle hub having an outer needle cannula extending therefrom. An inner needle is disposed for slidable movement with the outer needle cannula. At least one shield is extensible from a retracted position to an extended position to enclose a distal end of the inner needle. The shield includes a binding member disposed within the shield and defines binding surfaces that form an aperture configured for slidable receipt of the inner needle. The binding member includes a binding member reset surface aligned with a hub reset surface for engagement therewith to allow reuse of a shielded needle apparatus.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a divisional of U.S. Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 10/721,526, filed in the U.S. Patent and TrademarkOffice on Nov. 25, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Utilitypatent application Ser. No. 10/409,819, filed in the U.S. Patent andTrademark Office on Apr. 8, 2003 by Ferguson et al., which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 10/322,288,filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Dec. 17, 2002 byFerguson et al., which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patentapplication Ser. No. 60/424,655, filed in the U.S. Patent and TrademarkOffice on Nov. 7, 2002 by Bagley et al., and U.S. Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 10/202,201, filed in the U.S. Patent and TrademarkOffice on Jul. 23, 2002 by Ferguson et al., which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No.09/809,357, filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Mar. 15,2001 by Ferguson et al., the entire contents of each of thesedisclosures being hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to safety shields for medicalneedles, and more particularly, to resettable safety shields thatprotect a needle point of a medical needle.

2. Description of the Related Art

Problems associated with inadvertent needle sticks are well known in theart of blood sampling, percutaneous medication injection and othermedical procedures involving use of medical needles. Significantattention has been focused on needle stick problems due to thecontemporary sensitivity of exposure to AIDS, Hepatitis and otherserious blood-borne pathogen exposures.

Procedures for removing a needle from a patient commonly require atechnician to use one hand to place pressure at the wound site where theneedle is being withdrawn, while removing the needle device with theother hand. It is also common practice for an attending technician togive higher priority to care for the patient than is given to disposalof a needle. In the case of typical needle devices without safetyshields, such priority either requires the convenience of an availablesharps container within reach or another means for safe disposal withoutleaving the patient's side. Providing adequate care while followingsafety procedures is often compounded by the patient's physicalcondition and mental state, such as in burn units and psychiatric wards.Under such conditions, it is difficult to properly dispose of a usedneedle while caring for a patient.

The widespread knowledge and history associated with needle care anddisposal problems have resulted in numerous devices for preventingaccidental needle sticks. Problems of current safety devices includedifficulty of use and high cost due to their complexity and number ofparts.

Other known devices employ sheaths that are spring activated,telescoping, pivoting, etc. These devices, however, maydisadvantageously misfire or be cumbersome to activate. Furtherdrawbacks of current devices include high manufacturing cost due tocomplexity and the number of parts. Thus, these type prior art devicesmay not adequately and reliably shield medical needle apparatus toprevent hazardous exposure.

Consequently, there remains a need to provide a more satisfactorysolution for needle safety devices by overcoming the disadvantages anddrawbacks of the prior art. Therefore, it would be desirable to providea more adequate and reliable medical needle shield apparatus thatemploys a safety shield slidably movable along a medical needle toprevent hazardous exposure to a needle tip. It would be advantageous toprovide such a safety shield that is capable of being reset to safelyallow re-use of certain needle apparatus. Such a needle shield apparatusshould be easily and reliably movable to shield a needle tip of a needlecannula.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, the present disclosure addresses a need for a medicalneedle shield apparatus which effectively and inexpensively protects atip of a medical needle after use. The present disclosure resolvesrelated disadvantages and drawbacks experienced in the art. Morespecifically, the apparatus and method of this invention constitute animportant advance in the art of safety needle devices.

In one particular embodiment, a medical needle shield apparatus isprovided in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.The medical needle shield apparatus includes a needle hub having anouter needle cannula extending therefrom to a distal end. An innerneedle is disposed for slidable movement with the outer needle cannula.At least one shield is extensible from a retracted position to anextended position to enclose a distal end of the inner needle. Theshield includes a binding member disposed within the shield and definesbinding surfaces that form an aperture configured for slidable receiptof the inner needle between the retracted position and the extendedposition.

The binding member includes at least one drag inducing member such thatthe member engages the inner needle during slidable receipt of the innerneedle to create a drag force with the inner needle. The drag forcefacilitates rotation of the binding member relative to a longitudinalaxis of the inner needle such that the binding surfaces engage the innerneedle to prevent slidable movement of the inner needle in the extendedposition of the shield. The binding member further includes a needlecommunicating surface extending therefrom such that the needlecommunicating surface is engageable with the inner needle to preventrotation of the binding member. A retainer extends transversely from thebinding member for releasable engagement with the needle hub.

The binding member may be rotatable, relative to a longitudinal axis ofthe inner needle, between a non-binding orientation whereby the innerneedle is slidable relative to the binding member and a bindingorientation whereby the binding surfaces engage the inner needle toprevent slidable movement of the inner needle in the extended positionof the at least one shield. The binding member may include one or moreoutwardly arcuate arms that extend to the needle-communicating surface.

The inner needle can be attached to a handle for manipulation thereof.The needle hub may define a hub slot configured for receipt of theretainer. The needle hub may be releasably mountable with a housing ofthe at least one shield. The medical needle shield apparatus may furtherinclude a plurality of shields.

The at least one drag inducing member may define a cavity that issubstantially aligned with the aperture. The cavity is configured forslidable receipt of the needle to create the drag force with the needle.The binding member may include a substantially planar aperture platethat includes the binding surfaces that form the aperture. The at leastone drag inducing member may include a pair of arms extending from theaperture plate. The arms can have curled end portions spaced apart fromthe aperture plate. The arms can include deflectable members.

The shield can include a housing that defines at least one blockingmember extending from an interior surface thereof. The at least oneblocking member can be engageable with the binding member for urging thebinding member to a binding orientation. The aperture plate is axiallymovable for engagement with the at least one blocking member that causesrotation of the binding member to a binding orientation.

A binding member reset surface extends transversely from the bindingmember. The needle hub includes a hub reset surface aligned to contactwith the binding member reset surface of an activated binding memberwhen the shield housing is brought to mate concentrically with theneedle hub. The hub reset surface deflects the binding member resetsurface along with the needle engagement surface to a position above theinner needle surface and urges the binding member from the bindingorientation to the sliding orientation. Concurrently, due to contactbetween the hub reset surface and binding member reset surface, the hubretainer is urged into a position that reengages the needle hub andretains the needle hub to the needle shield. In an illustrativeembodiment, the hub reset surface is the distal facing surface of thehub retainer.

The medical needle shield apparatus may further be supported forrelative rotational movement by at least one bearing.

In an alternate embodiment, the medical needle shield apparatus includesa shield being extensible from a retracted position to an extendedposition to enclose a distal end of the outer needle cannula. The shielddefines a probe guide at a distal end thereof that is configured forreceipt of a probe. The probe is configured for slidable movement withthe outer needle cannula.

In another embodiment, the medical needle shield apparatus includes aneedle hub having an outer needle cannula extending therefrom to adistal end. An inner needle is disposed for slidable movement with theouter needle cannula. A handle is attached to the inner needle anddefines a flash chamber in communication with the inner needle. Theflash chamber has a fitting, such as a luer connection, that facilitatesconnection to a medical device. A shield is releasably mountable to theneedle hub and extensible from a retracted position to an extendedposition to enclose a distal end of the inner needle. The handle isdisposed adjacent the shield.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present inventionwill be more fully understood from the following detailed description ofthe exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one particular embodiment of a medicalneedle shield apparatus in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in ashielded configuration;

FIG. 3 is a cutaway perspective view of a shield of the medical needleshield apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a non-binding orientation;

FIG. 4 illustrates the cutaway perspective view of the medical needleshield apparatus shown in FIG. 2 in a binding orientation;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the housing of a needle safety apparatusas shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cutaway perspective of the grip element of a needle safetyapparatus as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a binding member of themedical needle shield apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the needle shield apparatus as shown inFIG. 1 having a protective needle sheath installed thereon;

FIG. 9 is an alternate enlarged perspective view of the binding membershown in FIG. 7;

FIGS. 10-11 are cutaway perspective views of the medical needle safetyapparatus showing engagement between hub reset surface and bindingmember reset surface according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of the medicalneedle safety apparatus according to the present disclosure adapted foruse with a luer lock needle hub;

FIG. 13 is a cutaway perspective view the medical needle safetyapparatus as shown in FIG. 12 in a shielded configuration;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the medical needle safetyapparatus as shown in FIG. 12 showing engagement between hub resetsurface and binding member reset surface according to the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the medical needle safetyapparatus as shown in FIG. 12 in a reset configuration;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a medical needleshield apparatus adapted for use with a bone biopsy needle in accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the depth stop assemblyshown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the handle assembly shownin FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 with the depth stop assembly partially advanced alongthe threaded sleeve;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 with the stylet partially extended from the needle hub;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the medical needle shield apparatusas shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 with the stylet fully extended from the needle hub;

FIG. 23A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the medical needleshield apparatus as shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 23B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternate embodimentof the medical needle shield apparatus shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 with the stylet removed and a syringe inserted in theneedle hub for aspiration purposes;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 with the depth stop assembly removed;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the medical needle shield apparatusshown in FIG. 16 in the shielded configuration;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the medical needle shieldapparatus shown in FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a medical needleshield apparatus adapted for use with a PICC introducer in accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is an alternative perspective view of an embodiment of a medicalneedle shield apparatus illustrated in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shownin FIG. 28 in a retracted position;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 28 in ashielded configuration;

FIG. 32 is a cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 28in a shielded configuration;

FIG. 33 is a cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 28in a reset configuration in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a medical needleshield apparatus adapted for use with an implanted port access inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 34 in anunshielded configuration;

FIG. 36 is a cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 34in a shielded configuration;

FIG. 37 is a cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 34in an unshielded configuration;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a medical needleshield apparatus adapted for use with a drug vial access in accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 38 in anunshielded configuration;

FIG. 40 is cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 39in a shielded configuration; and

FIG. 41 is a cutaway perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 39in a reset configuration according to the principles of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The exemplary embodiments of the medical needle shield apparatus andmethods of operation disclosed are discussed in terms of medical needlesfor infusion of intravenous fluids, medication infusion or fluidcollection, guiding of other needles, e.g., biopsy, and moreparticularly, in terms of needle shield apparatus employed with a needlecannula that prevent hazardous exposure to the needle tip, including,for example, inadvertent needle sticks. It is envisioned that thepresent disclosure, however, finds application to a wide variety ofcannula needles and devices for the infusion of preventive medications,medicaments, therapeutics, etc. to a subject, such as, for example,epidural needles, spinal needles, biopsy needles, chiba needles, pottscournand needles, coaxial introducer needles, Y-sites, etc. It is alsoenvisioned that the present disclosure may be employed for collection ofbody fluids and/or tissues, including those employed during proceduresrelating to soft tissue biopsy, bone biopsy, phlebotomy, digestive,intestinal, urinary, veterinary, etc. It is contemplated that themedical needle shield apparatus may be utilized with other medicalneedle applications including, but not limited to, fluid infusion, fluidcollection, catheters, catheter introducers, guidewire introducers,biopsy needle introducers, spinal and epidural, biopsy, aphaeresis,dialysis, blood donor, Veress needles, Huber needles, etc.

In the discussion that follows, the term “proximal” refers to a portionof a structure that is closer to a clinician, and the term “distal”refers to a portion that is further from the clinician. As used herein,the term “subject” refers to a patient that receives infusions or hasblood and/or fluid collected therefrom using the medical needle shieldapparatus. According to the present disclosure, the term “clinician”refers to an individual administering an infusion, performing fluid ortissue collection, installing or removing a needle cannula from amedical needle shield apparatus and may include support personnel.

The following discussion includes a description of the medical needleshield apparatus, followed by a description of the method of operatingthe medical needle shield apparatus in accordance with the presentdisclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplaryembodiments of the disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanyingfigures.

Turning now to the figures, wherein like components are designated bylike reference numerals throughout the several views. Referringinitially to FIGS. 1-11, there is illustrated a medical needle shieldapparatus, constructed in accordance with the principals of the presentdisclosure. The medical needle shield apparatus includes a shield 101that is extensible from a retracted position (FIGS. 1, 3) to an extendedposition (FIGS. 2, 4) to enclose a distal end 115 of a needle such as,for example, stylet 106 of a needle assembly. The needle assemblyincludes a hollow outer needle 103. Stylet 106 is slideably andconcentrically disposed with needle 103 for employment therewith duringa medical needle application, as will be discussed. A stylet handle 113is connected to stylet 106 to facilitate manipulation thereof. Otherneedle assemblies are also contemplated, including for example, needlecannulae, guide wire/introducers, etc.

A binding member 105 is disposed within shield 101 and defines bindingsurfaces 122. Binding surfaces 122 form an aperture configured forslidable receipt of stylet 106 between the retracted position and theextended position. Binding member 105 includes a drag inducing member,such as, for example, friction members 126 extending therefrom. Bindingmember 105 has a stylet communicating surface 123 that is engageablewith stylet 106 to prevent rotation to the binding position of bindingmember 105.

Friction members 126 are configured for slidable engagement with stylet106 between the retracted position and the extended position such thatfriction members 126 engage stylet 106 to create a drag force withstylet 106. It is envisioned that one or a plurality of friction members126 may be employed.

The drag force in conjunction with one of blocking members 116 and/or117, cause binding member 105 to move to a binding position (FIG. 4).The force created by blocking members 116 and/or 117 acts in a directionopposite to the drag force. This causes a force couple, which movesbinding member 105 to the binding position.

As stylet 106 is released from engagement with a stylet communicatingsurface 123, binding member 105 and a retainer 114 move to the bindingposition. Rotation of binding member 105 is no longer opposed byengagement with stylet 106 at stylet communicating surface 123. Thus,binding member 105, with retainer 114, is subject to inclination intothe binding position. Rotation of binding member 105 causes bindingsurfaces 122 to frictionally engage stylet 106 to prevent movementthereof.

Blocking members 116 and/or 117 cause binding member 105 to move to thebinding position as forces imposed on shield 101 cause relative movementthereof in either direction along longitudinal axis x. This maintainsstylet 106 within shield 101 to avoid hazardous exposure to distal end115. It is envisioned that stylet communicating surface 123 may includeribs, projections, cavities, etc. for engagement with stylet 106 or thata portion of stylet communicating surface 123 engages stylet 106.

The components of the medical needle shield apparatus can be fabricatedfrom a material suitable for medical applications, such as, for example,polymerics or metals, such as stainless steel, depending on theparticular medical application and/or preference of a clinician.Semi-rigid and rigid polymerics are contemplated for fabrication, aswell as resilient materials, such as molded medical grade polypropylene.However, one skilled in the art will realize that other materials andfabrication methods suitable for assembly and manufacture, in accordancewith the present disclosure, also would be appropriate.

In an illustrative embodiment, shield 101 includes a bearing 102 thathouses binding member 105. Bearing 102 may be monolithically formed orintegrally assembled of multiple sections and may be substantiallytransparent, opaque, etc.

In the retracted position, shield 101 is disposed adjacent to a needlehub 104 of outer needle 103. It is contemplated that outer needle 103may also be comprised of a flexible, polymeric material, and that thecomponents of the medical needle apparatus may be employed with otherneedle applications, such as, for example, catheters, PICC introducers,etc.

Binding member 105 may be monolithically formed and includes an apertureplate 118, frictional members 126, end sensing member 119, styletcommunicating surface 123, binding member reset surface 107 and retainer114. It is contemplated that binding member 105 may include one or morefrictional members 126, and that retainer 114 may extend from bearing102. Aperture plate 118 may have a rectangular, generally planarconfiguration with sufficient stiffness to produce forces for bindingstylet 106, as will be discussed. It is envisioned that aperture plate118 may have an arcuate surface, undulating, etc. It is furtherenvisioned that aperture plate 118 may have various degrees of stiffnessaccording to the requirements of a particular application.

The embodiment of a resettable passive safety device disclosed in FIGS.1-11 show a hollow needle 103 solid stylet 106, rotational housing witha stylet shield 125 and thrust bore 133, a bearing 102 with thrustcollar 132, and a binding member 105. The thrust bore 133 and thrustcollar 132 are configured to allow rotation of stylet shield 125relative to bearing 102.

The resettable feature of this device is employed after the passivesafety device has been activated. Initially, the safety shield 101 andneedle 103 are positioned over the stylet 106 (FIG. 1). During themedical procedure, the stylet 106 is automatically protected by thesafety shield 101 as the stylet 106 is withdrawn from the needle (FIG.2).

The safety shield 101 is advanced to near the distal end of the stylet115 in a position prior to activation of the binding member 105 (FIG.3). In this position, the hub retainer 114 retains the proximity of theneedle hub 104 to the safety shield 101 by interacting with hub slot 124and the binding member 105 is in the sliding orientation. It isenvisioned that hub slot 124 may be in the form of other shapes forproviding a cavity.

In FIG. 4, the safety shield 101 is positioned further toward the distalend of the stylet 115 to the point where the safety shield 101 isactivated. The binding member 105 has moved to the binding orientationand the hub retainer 114 of the binding member 105 has released theneedle hub 104.

In FIG. 2, the activated and locked safety shield 101 is illustrated. Inthis configuration, the needle 103 has been removed, the stylet distalend 115 is inside the housing at a distance which prevents humancontact, and the binding member 105 is in the binding orientation.

Frictional members 126 may be monolithically formed with binding member105 and extend from aperture plate 118 in association therewith foralignment with aperture 138 and engagement with stylet 106. Suchengagement creates a frictional drag force with stylet 106. Thisfrictional drag force in conjunction with one of the blocking members116 and/or 117 causes binding member 105 to move with stylet 106, whichgenerates a canting force and inclination of aperture plate 118. Thecanting force and inclination urge rotation of binding member 105. It iscontemplated that a single friction member may be employed. It isfurther contemplated that frictional members 126 may have flexibleportions, which may be of varying flexibility according to theparticular requirements of a needle application.

As facilitated by movement of stylet 106, the canting force causes alever or moment of end sensing member 119, which is opposed to preventrotation of binding member 105. The canting force is opposed byengagement of stylet communicating surface 123 with stylet 106 in anon-binding or sliding orientation (FIG. 3) of binding member 105.

End sensing member 119 extends distally from aperture plate 118. Endsensing member 119 may be perpendicularly oriented relative to a planedefined by aperture plate 118. This perpendicular orientationfacilitates inclination of aperture plate 118 for disposal in a bindingor non-binding orientation of binding member 105. It is envisioned thatend sensing member 119 may be variously oriented with aperture plate 118and may flexibly extend therefrom.

Stylet communicating surface 123 opposes the canting force of endsensing member 119 directed to stylet 106. The canting force isgenerated by friction members 126 in conjunction with one of blockingmembers 116 and/or 117 and facilitates inclination of aperture plate118. Inclination, however, is prevented in the non-binding or slidingorientation because of the engagement of stylet communicating surface123 with stylet 106. As stylet 106 is retracted proximally and shield101 is extended distally, stylet 106 continues to slideably engagestylet communicating surface 123.

As stylet 106 is released from engagement with stylet communicatingsurface 123, as shown in FIG. 4, a drag force is created betweenfriction members 126 and stylet 106. The drag force in conjunction withblocking member 116, cause aperture plate 118 to move to the bindingposition, as discussed.

Rotation of aperture plate 118 causes binding surfaces 122 tofrictionally engage stylet 106 to prevent movement thereof. Blockingmembers 116, 117 cause aperture plate 118 to move to the bindingposition as forces are imposed on shield 101 in either direction alonglongitudinal axis x. This maintains stylet 106 within shield 101 toavoid hazardous exposure to distal end 115.

Aperture 138 is formed within aperture plate 118 for slidable engagementwith stylet 106 during movement between the retracted position and theextended position of shield 101. Aperture 138 includes binding surfaces122 formed on opposing sides of aperture 138 that engage stylet 106 toprevent movement thereof in the extended position of shield 101. It iscontemplated that engagement to prevent movement of stylet 106 mayinclude penetrating, frictional, interference, etc. It is envisionedthat aperture 138 may have various geometric configurations, such asradial, polygonal, etc. It is further envisioned that aperture 138 maydefine an open cavity within aperture plate 118, such as, for example,“U” shaped and open to one or a plurality of edges of aperture plate118.

The inclination of aperture plate 118 relative to longitudinal axis xfacilitates sliding and binding, via binding surfaces 122, of stylet 106within shield 101 to prevent hazardous exposure to distal end 115. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 3, aperture plate 118 is oriented at an angleof approximately 90° relative to longitudinal axis x such that apertureplate 118 is disposed substantially perpendicular to stylet 106. In thisnon-binding or sliding orientation, stylet 106 is free to slide withinaperture 138. As stylet 106 is retracted and shield 101 is extended,stylet 106 continues to engage stylet communicating surface 123 andaperture plate 118 maintains its perpendicular orientation relative tolongitudinal axis x.

Referring to FIG. 4, shield 101 is manipulated such that frictionmembers 126 in conjunction with blocking member 116 cause binding member105 to rotate relative to longitudinal axis x. Aperture plate 118rotates out of perpendicular alignment with stylet 106 such thataperture plate 118 is oriented at an angle less than 90° with respect tolongitudinal axis x.

As aperture plate 118 rotates, the binding member 105 approaches abinding orientation. The binding orientation includes engagement ofbinding surfaces 122 with stylet 106 due to the binding orientation ofaperture plate 118. This engagement creates binding frictional forces onstylet 106, in conjunction with frictional members 126 and blockingmembers 116, 117 to prevent movement of stylet 106 relative to shield101 in both distal and proximal directions, and to maintain distal end115 within shield 101 to prevent hazardous exposure thereto.

Blocking members 116, 117 are disposed not to interfere with stylet 106.Blocking members 116, 117 define surfaces that facilitate disposal ofaperture plate 118 in a binding orientation.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, shield 101 is in a retracted positionand stylet 106 is fully extended. Binding member 105 and aperture plate118 are in a non-binding or sliding orientation such that aperture plate118 is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis x. Blockingmembers 116, 117 may engage aperture plate 118 to maintain apertureplate 118 in the perpendicular orientation. Blocking members 116, 117may also maintain such orientation during extension of stylet 106 or maynot engage stylet 106.

As stylet 106 is retracted and shield 101 is extended, as shown in FIG.4, friction members 126 create a drag force via engagement with stylet106 on binding member 105 and in conjunction with blocking member 116cause aperture plate 118 to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction tothe binding position. Blocking members 116, 117 engage aperture plate118 to facilitate rotation thereof from the perpendicular position intothe binding position such that binding surfaces 122 engage stylet 106,as discussed. This configuration prevents movement of stylet 106.

Binding of binding member 105 to stylet 106 is facilitated by thefriction force generated between binding surfaces 122 and stylet 106.This frictional engagement prevents axial movement of stylet 106relative to bearing 102 when shield 101 is in the extended position.This configuration advantageously prevents hazardous exposure to stylet106. It is contemplated that binding surfaces 122 may include sharpedges to increase frictional engagement. It is further contemplated thatthe binding friction force may be created and varied by one or morealtering factors, such as, for example, aperture 138 configuration anddimension, stylet 106 configuration and dimension, aperture plate 118thickness, the dimension from blocking members 116, 117 contact point tothe centerline of stylet 106 and the coefficient of friction betweenaperture 138 and stylet 106 depending on the particular requirements ofa needle application. It is envisioned that friction members 126 may beconfigured so as to vary the drag force with variation of theinclination of the aperture plate 118, this variation in drag force maybe accomplished by geometric changes in the shape of the frictionmembers 126, such as wedge shapes or the inclusion of notches to engagestylet 106, this variation in drag force may also be accomplishedthrough the selective application of friction modifying materials orcoatings such as oils, jells, greases, or coatings which change thefriction.

It is envisioned that the aperture in aperture plate 118 may create adrag force via engagement with sylet 106 to cause rotation of bindingmember 105, similar to that described. It is further envisioned thatmaterials such as, for example, jells, greases, etc. may be employed tocreate a frictional drag force with stylet 106 to cause rotation ofbinding member 105.

Needle hub 104 is mounted with needle 103 and is releasably mounted withshield 101 via releasable engagement with retainer 114. Needle hub 104is employed with the medical needle shield apparatus of the presentdisclosure for various utility according to the requirements of aparticular medical needle application. Shield 101 and needle hub 104slidably support needle 103 and stylet 106 for use thereof. Handle 113facilitates manipulation thereof.

Needle hub 104 has a hub slot 124 for receipt and engagement withbinding member 105. Needle hub 104 has a finger tab 160 for urgingneedle hub 104 in a direction, along longitudinal axis x, away fromshield 101. This configuration facilitates removal and use of needle hub104 and needle 103 from shield 101 during a medical needle application.It is contemplated that finger tab 160 may be alternatively configuredand dimensioned according to the needle application.

A flange 162 of needle hub 104 is concentrically supported by a controlsurface 110 disposed about an inner surface of bearing 102. Controlsurface 110 engages an outer surface 164 of flange 162 for releasablesupport thereof. Outer surface 164 may engage control surface 110 in africtional, interference, etc. fit to maintain releasable positioningwith bearing 102. It is contemplated that control surface 110 may engageother portions of needle hub 104.

Bearing 102 includes hub stop surfaces 112 that facilitate positioningof needle hub 104 with bearing 102. Hub stop surfaces 112 preventproximal movement of needle hub 104 during mounting with and relative tobearing 102. Hub stop surfaces 112 advantageously facilitate control ofthe degree of insertion with bearing 102 according to the requirementsof a particular medical needle application. One or a plurality of hubstop surfaces 112 may be employed. It is contemplated that hub stopsurfaces 112 may include springs, clips, etc. to facilitate attachmentwith needle hub 104.

Retainer 114 may extend transversely from a distal end of styletcommunicating surface 123. Hub retainer 114 extends a sufficient lengthfor corresponding receipt within hub slot 124 of needle hub 104. Inassociation with a non-binding or sliding orientation of binding member105, retainer 114 engages needle hub 104, in hub slot 124, forreleasably mounting with bearing 102 of shield 101.

As stylet 106 is retracted in a proximal direction and shield 101 isextended in a distal direction, retainer 114 rotates in a counterclockwise direction (FIG. 4) relative to longitudinal axis x due to thecanting forces generated by friction members 126. Retainer 114disengages from hub slot 124 to release needle hub 104 from bearing 102.A clinician may manipulate finger tab 160 to manipulate needle hub 104distally and apart from shield 101. It is contemplated that retainer 114may be variously oriented from binding member 105 or styletcommunicating surface 123. It is further contemplated that hub slot 124may be variously dimensioned to extend about the circumference of needlehub 104. Hub slot 124 may include tabs, etc. for retention with retainer114.

To re-access the stylet distal end 115 using the resettable passivesafety device, the stylet shield 125 is brought to mate concentricallywith the proximal end of the needle hub 104, in a similar fashion to thepre-activated state of the device. As this occurs, the binding memberreset surface 107 comes into contact with the hub reset surface 108.This action is depicted in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10.

As the stylet 106 is advanced from a proximal-to-distal direction, thehub reset surface 108 deflects the binding member reset surface 107,along with the end sensing member 119, to a position above the stylet106 surface and urges the binding member 105 from the bindingorientation to the sliding orientation. With the binding member 105 inthe sliding orientation, the stylet 106 becomes free to advance into theneedle 103.

Concurrently, due to the contact between the hub reset surface 108 andthe binding member reset surface 107, the hub retainer 114 is urged intothe hub slot 124. This causes the hub retainer 114 of the binding member105 to again retain the needle hub 104 to the safety shield 101 throughthe interaction with the hub slot 124 (FIG. 11).

Upon being reset, the safety shield 101 and needle 103 are positionedover the stylet 106, as seen in FIG. 1. During the medical procedure,the stylet 106 will be automatically protected by the safety shield 101as the stylet 106 is again withdrawn from the needle.

FIGS. 12-15 illustrate the resettable safety shield according to thepresent disclosure as applied to a needle with a luer fitting 121 and aluer taper 109. In this embodiment, the hub reset surface 108 isprovided on a portion separate from the needle hub 104. A hub resetsurface spring 111 exerts a force to bias the hub reset surface 108 inthe proximal direction. The hub reset surface spring 111 can be madefrom any number of suitable resilient materials commonly known,including metal, plastic, elastomeric materials, and the like.

In the embodiment wherein the hub reset surface 108 is within the luerfitting 121, the hub reset surface spring 111 assures that the hub resetsurface 108 is in the correct location in the needle hub to providealignment and engagement between the hub reset surface 108 and bindingmember reset surface 107. When a luer male taper, such as for example, aluer lock or luer slip is inserted into needle hub 104, the hub resetsurface spring 111 is compressed and the hub reset surface 108 isdisplaced to allow the luer male taper to mate with the entire length ofluer taper 109. It is envisioned that the hub reset surface 108 may alsobe disposed around the luer fitting 121, as shown in FIG. 23B. Theembodiment shown in FIG. 23B also shows an alternate embodiment of thereset surfaces 107 extending from the binding member 105 and engagingretaining surface 141.

To re-access the stylet distal end 115 using the resettable passivesafety device, the stylet shield 125 is brought to mate concentricallywith the proximal end of the needle hub 104, in a similar fashion to thepre-activated state of the device. As this occurs, the binding memberreset surface 107 comes into contact with the hub reset surface 108.This action is depicted in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14.

As the stylet 106 is advanced from a proximal-to-distal direction, thehub reset surface 108 deflects the binding member reset surface 107,along with the end sensing member 119, to a position above the stylet106 surface and urges the binding member 105 from the bindingorientation to the sliding orientation. With the binding member 105 inthe sliding orientation, the stylet 106 becomes free to advance into theneedle 103.

Concurrently, due to the contact between the hub reset surface 108 andthe binding member reset surface 107, the hub retainer 114 is urged intothe hub slot 124. This causes the hub retainer 114 of the binding member105 to again retain the needle hub 104 to the safety shield 101 throughthe interaction with the hub slot 124 (FIG. 15).

Upon being reset, the safety shield 101 and needle 103 are positionedover the stylet 106. During the medical procedure, the style 106 will beautomatically protected by the safety shield 101 as the stylet 106 isagain withdrawn from the needle.

FIGS. 16-27 illustrate the resettable safety shield according to thepresent disclosure as applied to a bone biopsy needle 101. In thisembodiment, the luer taper 109 is used in the manner describedhereinbefore with respect to FIGS. 12-15. The bone biopsy needle 101 mayalso include an adjustable depth stop assembly 140 for setting thedesired needle 103 insertion depth. A lock nut 142 locks the depth stopassembly 140 in the desired position. Tabs 144 engage correspondingslots 156 (shown in FIG. 25) to fix depth stop assembly 140 while thelock nut 142 is engaged.

A needle shield 137 may be disposed in depth stop assembly 140 asillustrated in FIG. 17. Corresponding threads 148 and 150 disposed ondepth stop assembly 140 and sleeve 151, respectively, provide forthreadable movement of depth stop assembly 140. Needle shield 137operates in similar fashion to shield 101 described in FIGS. 1-11, aswill be discussed in more detail hereafter.

The medical needle shield apparatus for stylet 106 includes a bindingmember 105 that is disposed within a stylet shield 125, similar to thatdescribed with regard to FIGS. 1-11, that is extensible from a retractedposition to an extended position to enclose a distal end of a stylet 106of a needle assembly. Stylet 106 is slideably and concentricallydisposed with a needle 103 of the needle assembly for employmenttherewith during a bone biopsy needle application. A stylet handle 113is connected to stylet 106.

In operation, the clinician (not shown) manipulates handle 113 such thatshield 101 is in the retracted position (FIGS. 16, 18, 19) and bindingmember 105 is in a non-binding or sliding position. Handle 113 mayinclude a tab 152 for temporary securement to hub 104. Hub 104 includesan opening (not shown) such that handle 113 may be released fromtemporary securement as tab 152 is rotated to align tab 152 with theopening. Stylet 106 is extended relative to shield 101 such that needlehub 104 is disposed about needle 103 and needle hub 104 is releasablymounted with bearing 102.

A procedure employing the medical needle shield apparatus with stylet106 and needle 103 is performed by the clinician to completion.

Needle hub 104 is releasably mounted with stylet handle 113. Referringto FIG. 22, stylet 106 is retracted proximally such that shield 101 isextended to the extended position and binding member 105 is disposed ina binding position. Needle hub 104 is released from stylet shield 125 inthe extended position. This maintains stylet 106 within stylet shield125 to avoid hazardous exposure to the distal end of stylet 106.

To re-access the stylet distal end 115 using the resettable passivesafety device, the stylet shield 125 is brought to mate concentricallywith the proximal end of the needle hub 104, in a similar fashion to thepre-activated state of the device. As this occurs, the binding memberreset surface 107 comes into contact with the hub reset surface 108.This action is depicted in the embodiment shown in FIG. 23A.

As the stylet 106 is advanced from a proximal-to-distal direction, thehub reset surface 108 deflects the binding member reset surface 107,along with the end sensing member 119, to a position above the stylet106 surface and urges the binding member 105 from the bindingorientation to the sliding orientation. With the binding member 105 inthe sliding orientation, the stylet 106 becomes free to advance into theneedle 103.

Concurrently, due to the contact between the hub reset surface 108 andthe binding member reset surface 107, the hub retainer 114 is urged intothe hub slot 124. This causes the hub retainer 114 of the binding member105 to again retain the needle hub 104 to the safety shield 101 throughthe interaction with the hub slot 124.

Upon being reset, the stylet shield 125 and needle 103 are positionedover the stylet 106, as seen in FIG. 16. During the medical procedure,the style 106 will be automatically protected by the stylet shield 125as the stylet 106 is again withdrawn from the needle.

FIG. 24 illustrates a syringe inserted into hub 104 for aspirationpurposes with stylet 106 removed.

FIG. 25 illustrates the resettable safety shield device 101 with thedepth stop assembly 140 removed and the needle shield 137 in theretracted position. FIGS. 26-27 show the needle shield 137 in theshielded configuration. A binding member 105′ is disposed within needleshield 137 and defines binding surfaces (not shown). Binding surfacesform an aperture configured for slidable receipt of hollow needle 103between the retracted position and the extended position. Binding member105′ includes a drag inducing member, such as, for example, frictionmembers 126′ extending therefrom. Binding member 105′ has a needlecommunicating surface 123′ that is engageable with hollow needle 103 toprevent rotation of binding member 105′.

Friction members 126′ are configured for slidable engagement with hollowneedle 103 between the retracted position and the extended position suchthat friction members 126′ engage hollow needle 103 to create a dragforce with hollow needle 103. It is envisioned that one or a pluralityof friction members 126′ may be employed.

The drag force in conjunction with one of blocking members 116′ and/or117′, cause binding member 105′ to move to a binding position (FIG. 27).The force created by blocking members 116′ and/or 117′ acts in adirection opposite to the drag force. This causes a force couple, whichmoves binding member 105′ to the binding position.

A funnel portion 146 in needle shield 137 acts as a probe guide tofacilitate insertion of a shepherd's hook or the like. Depth stop 140may be slideably removed with safety shield 137 remaining in theproximal position. This allows a clinician to utilize the entire lengthof needle 103. As shown, depth stop 140 is removed prior to activationof safety shield 137. Alternatively, safety shield 137 may be connectto, or formed as part of, the depth stop 140.

FIGS. 28-29 illustrate the resettable safety shield device according tothe present disclosure as applied to a PICC introducer or similarcatheter and needle introducers. In this embodiment, the hollow needle103 is polymeric, and the stylet (or inner needle) 106 is a sharp,hollow bore cannula. The handle 113 of the PICC Introducer has a flashplug 135 and a flash chamber 136 that is in communication with innerneedle 106. A luer fitting 121 communicates with the flash chamber 136and allows the fitting of other medical devices.

The medical needle shield apparatus includes a shield 101, similar tothose described, that is extensible from a retracted position (FIG. 28)to an extended position (FIGS. 31-32) to enclose a distal end of hollowneedle 103 of a needle assembly. Hollow needle 103 is slideably andconcentrically disposed with a hub 104 (FIG. 28) of the needle assemblyfor employment therewith during a PICC introducer application. Hub 104may, or may not, be splitable. Hub 104 is desirably fabricated from apolymeric material. It is contemplated that the medical needles of thepresent disclosure may incorporate a protective needle sheath member tofacilitate additional protection during transportation and use of themedical needles.

A handle 113 is connected to inner needle 106. Handle 113 may have aflash chamber 139 in communication with inner needle 106. A luer fitting121 communicates with flash chamber 139 that facilitates connection tovarious medical devices via either a luer slip or luer lock attachmentfeature.

A binding member 105, similar to that described with regard to FIGS.1-11, is disposed within shield 101. Shield 101 includes a bearing 102that houses binding member 105.

Needle hub 104 is mounted with hollow needle 103. Needle hub 104 isreleasably mounted with shield 101 via releasable engagement with aretainer 114 of binding member 105. Needle hub 104 has a hub slot 124for receipt and engagement with binding member 105. This configurationfacilitates removal and use of hub 104 from shield 101 during a medicalneedle application.

A flange of needle hub 104 is concentrically supported by a controlsurface of a stylet shield 125, discussed below. The control surfaceengages the flange for releasable support thereof. Retainer 114 extendsfor receipt within a hub slot 124 of needle hub 104. In association witha non-binding or sliding orientation of binding member 105, retainer 114is disposed within hub slot 124 for releasably mounting with shield 101.As inner needle 106 is retracted and shield 101 is extended, retainer114 rotates in a counter clockwise direction and disengages from hubslot 124 to release needle hub 104 from stylet shield 125.

A stylet shield 125 is disposed for rotation and enclosure of the distalend of inner needle 106. Stylet shield 125 is mounted with handle 113and freely rotates relative to shield 101 and inner needle 106 in theextended position of shield 101. Relative rotation of stylet shield 125is facilitated by support at bearing openings formed in stylet shield125 and axles, similar to those described above. In a binding position,the bearing configuration supports rotation of stylet shield 125relative to shield 101 and inner needle 106.

Inner needle 106 is retracted proximally such that shield 101 isextended to the extended position and binding member 105 is disposed ina binding position. Needle hub 104 is released from shield 101 andshield 101 encloses the distal end of needle 103 in the extendedposition. This maintains needle 103 within shield 101 to avoid hazardousexposure to the distal end of needle 103.

In operation, needle hub 104 is released from shield 101 and a styletshield 125 encloses the distal end of inner needle 106 in the extendedposition, as described above. This maintains inner needle 106 withinshield 101 to avoid hazardous exposure to the distal end thereof.

To re-access the inner needle 106 using the resettable passive safetydevice, the stylet shield 125 of the rotating focusing is brought tomate concentrically with the proximal end of the needle hub 104, in asimilar fashion to the pre-activated state of the device. As thisoccurs, the binding member reset surface 107, on the end sensing member119, comes into contact with the hub reset surface 108. This action isdepicted in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 30 and 33.

As the inner needle 106 is advanced from a proximal-to-distal direction,the hub reset surface 108 deflects the binding member reset surface 107,along with the end sensing member 119, to a position above the innerneedle 106 surface and urges the binding member 105 from the bindingorientation to the sliding orientation. With the binding member 105 inthe sliding orientation, the inner needle 106 becomes free to advanceinto hollow needle 103.

Concurrently, due to the contact between the hub reset surface 108 andthe binding member reset surface 107, the hub retainer 114 is urged intothe hub slot 124. This causes the hub retainer 114 of the binding member105 to again retain the needle hub 104 to the safety shield 101 throughthe interaction with the hub slot 124.

Upon being reset, the safety shield 101 and hollow needle 103 arepositioned over the inner needle 106, as seen in FIG. 28. During themedical procedure, the inner needle 106 will be automatically protectedby the safety shield 101 as the inner needle 106 is again withdrawn fromthe needle.

FIGS. 34-37 illustrate the resettable safety shield device according tothe present disclosure as applied to a port access device or implantedpump. It is contemplated herein that the port access device may beimplanted or exterior to a patient. Operation and construction of thisembodiment is in accordance with the various embodiments describedherein such as for example the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1-11.FIGS. 34-37 show an implanted port 127 and skin layer 129 along with animplanted port access body 130. The port access body contains the hubreset surface 108. In the present embodiment, the stylet 106 isprotected by the safety shield 101 before use. Hub reset surface 108 andbinding member reset surface 107 reset the safety device as describedhereinbefore to allow stylet 106 to pass through the skin layer 129 andenter the implanted port 127. The safety shield device reactivates uponremoval of stylet 106 from the implanted port access body 130.

With reference to FIGS. 38-41, illustrated is a resettable safety shielddevice according to the present disclosure as applied to a drug vialaccess. Operation and construction of this embodiment is in accordancewith the various embodiments described herein such as for example theembodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1-11. FIGS. 38-41 show a drug vial 131along with a corresponding drug vial access body 134. Stylet 106 isprotected by a safety shield 101 before use. Hub reset surface 108engages binding member reset surface 107 to allow stylet 106 to enterdrug vial 131. The safety device re-activates upon removal of stylet 106from drug vial access body 134.

The invention of the present disclosure may be embodied in otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or essentialcharacteristics thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to beconsidered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, thescope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims ratherthan by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within themeaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended tobe embraced therein.

1. A medical needle shield apparatus comprising: a needle hub having anouter needle cannula extending therefrom to a distal end, an innerneedle being disposed for slidable movement with the outer needlecannula; and at least one shield being extensible from a retractedposition to an extended position to enclose a distal end of the innerneedle, the shield including a binding member disposed within the shieldand defining binding surfaces that form an aperture configured forslidable receipt of the inner needle between the retracted position andthe extended position, the binding member including at least one draginducing member such that the at least one drag inducing member engagesthe inner needle during slidable receipt of the inner needle to create adrag force with the inner needle, the drag force and shield facilitatingrotation of the binding member relative to a longitudinal axis of theinner needle such that the binding surfaces engage the inner needle toprevent slidable movement of the inner needle in the extended positionof the shield, the binding member further including a needlecommunicating surface extending therefrom such that the needlecommunicating surface is engageable with the inner needle to preventrotation of the binding member, a retainer for releasable engagementwith the needle hub, and the binding member further including a bindingmember reset surface aligned with a hub reset surface.
 2. A medicalneedle shield apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least onedrag inducing member defines a cavity that is substantially aligned withthe aperture, the cavity being configured for slidable receipt of theneedle to create the drag force with the needle.
 3. A medical needleshield apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the binding memberincludes a substantially planar aperture plate that includes the bindingsurfaces that form the aperture.
 4. A medical needle shield apparatus asrecited in claim 3, wherein the at least one drag inducing memberincludes a pair of arms extending from the aperture plate.
 5. A medicalneedle shield apparatus as recited in claim 3, wherein the arm includesa deflectable member.
 6. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited inclaim 1, wherein the binding member is rotatable, relative to alongitudinal axis of the inner needle, between a non-binding orientationwhereby the inner needle is slidable relative to the binding member anda binding orientation whereby the binding surfaces engage the innerneedle to prevent slidable movement of the inner needle in the extendedposition of the at least one shield.
 7. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the shield includes a housingthat defines at least one blocking member extending from an interiorsurface thereof, the at least one blocking member being engageable withthe binding member for urging the binding member to a bindingorientation.
 8. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim 3,wherein the shield includes a housing that defines at least one blockingmember extending from an interior surface thereof, the aperture platebeing axially movable for engagement with the at least one blockingmember that causes rotation of the binding member to a bindingorientation.
 9. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim 1,wherein the at least one shield is supported for relative rotationalmovement by at least one bearing.
 10. A medical needle shield apparatusas recited in claim 1, wherein the inner needle is attached to a handlefor manipulation thereof.
 11. A medical needle shield apparatus asrecited in claim 1, wherein the needle hub is releasably mountable witha housing of the at least one shield.
 12. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the needle hub defines a hubslot that is configured to receive the retainer of the binding member.13. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein thebinding member includes at least one outwardly arcuate arm that extendsto the needle communicating surface.
 14. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a plurality ofshields.
 15. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim 1,wherein said binding member reset surface comprises the distal facingsurface of said retainer.
 16. A medical needle shield apparatus asrecited in claim 1, wherein said hub reset surface is configured todeflect said binding member reset surface to facilitate rotation of thebinding member relative to said longitudinal axis such that said bindingsurface disengages the inner needle.
 17. A medical needle shieldaccording to claim 1, wherein said medical needle is adapted for bonebiopsy.
 18. A medical needle shield according to claim 1, wherein saidmedical needle is adapted for catheter introduction to a patient.
 19. Amedical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said hubreset surface is separate from said hub and urged by a spring towardsaid binding member reset surface.
 20. A medical needle shield apparatusof claim 19, further comprising a luer male taper configured with saidhub.
 21. A medical needle shield according to claim 1, wherein saidmedical needle operates in communication with a port access device. 22.A medical needle shield according to claim 1, further comprising aprotective needle sheath member.
 23. A medical needle shield apparatuscomprising: a needle hub having an outer needle cannula extendingtherefrom, an inner needle being disposed for slidable movement with theouter needle cannula; and a shield being extensible from a retractedposition to an extended position to enclose a distal end of the outerneedle cannula, the shield including a binding member disposed withinthe shield and defining binding surfaces that form an apertureconfigured for slidable receipt of the outer needle cannula between theretracted position and the extended position, the binding memberincluding at least one drag inducing member such that the at least onedrag inducing member engages the outer needle cannula during slidablereceipt of the outer needle cannula to create a drag force with theouter needle cannula, the drag force and shield facilitating rotation ofthe binding member relative to a longitudinal axis of the outer needlecannula such that the binding surfaces engage the outer needle cannulato prevent slidable movement of the outer needle cannula in the extendedposition of the shield, and the binding member further including aneedle communicating surface extending therefrom such that the needlecommunicating surface is engageable with the outer needle cannula toprevent rotation of the binding member.
 24. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 23, wherein the binding member isrotatable, relative to a longitudinal axis of the outer needle cannula,between a non-binding orientation whereby the outer needle cannula isslidable relative to the binding member and a binding orientationwhereby the binding surfaces engage the outer needle cannula to preventslidable movement of the outer needle cannula in the extended positionof the shield.
 25. A medical needle shield apparatus as recited in claim23, wherein the shield includes a housing that defines at least oneblocking member extending from an interior surface thereof, the bindingmember including an aperture plate being axially movable for engagementwith the at least one blocking member that causes rotation of thebinding member to a binding orientation.
 26. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 23, wherein the shield includes a probeguide at a distal end thereof configured for receipt of a probe, theprobe being configured for slidable movement with the outer needlecannula.
 27. A medical needle shield apparatus comprising: a needle hubhaving an outer needle cannula extending therefrom to a distal end, aninner needle being disposed for slidable movement with the outer needlecannula, a handle being attached to the inner needle; and a shield beingreleasably mountable to the needle hub and extensible from a retractedposition to an extended position to enclose a distal end of the innerneedle, the handle being disposed adjacent the shield, the shieldincluding a binding member disposed within the shield and definingbinding surfaces that form an aperture configured for slidable receiptof the inner needle between the retracted position and the extendedposition, the binding member including at least one drag inducing membersuch that the at least one drag inducing member engages the inner needleduring slidable receipt of the inner needle to create a drag force withthe inner needle, the drag force and shield facilitating rotation of thebinding member relative to a longitudinal axis of the inner needle suchthat the binding surfaces engage the inner needle to prevent slidablemovement of the inner needle in the extended position of the shield, andthe binding member further including a needle communicating surfaceextending therefrom such that the needle communicating surface isengageable with the inner needle to prevent rotation of the bindingmember, a retainer for releasable engagement with a hub slot of theneedle hub, and a binding member reset surface aligned for engagementwith a hub reset surface.
 28. A medical needle shield apparatus asrecited in claim 27, wherein the binding member is rotatable, relativeto a longitudinal axis of the inner needle, between a non-bindingorientation whereby the inner needle is slidable relative to the bindingmember and a binding orientation whereby the binding surfaces engage theinner needle to prevent slidable movement of the inner needle in theextended position of the shield.
 29. A medical needle shield apparatusas recited in claim 27, wherein the shield includes a housing thatdefines at least one blocking member extending from an interior surfacethereof, the binding member including an aperture plate being axiallymovable for engagement with the at least one blocking member that causesrotation of the binding member to a binding orientation.
 30. A medicalneedle shield apparatus as recited in claim 27, further comprising aluer slip or luer lock attachment feature.
 31. A medical needle shieldapparatus as recited in claim 27, further comprising a flash chamber incommunication with the inner needle, the flash chamber having a fittingthat facilitates connection to a medical device.
 32. A medical needleshield apparatus comprising: a needle hub having a needle cannulaextending therefrom to a distal end; at least one shield beingextensible from a retracted position to an extended position to enclosea distal end of the needle cannula; and a depth stop device slidablydisposed on the needle cannula, said at least one shield beingsubstantially disposed within said depth stop device.
 33. A medicalneedle shield apparatus comprising: a needle hub having an outer needlecannula extending therefrom to a distal end, an inner needle beingdisposed for slidable movement with the outer needle cannula; and atleast one shield being extensible from a retracted position to anextended position to enclose a distal end of the inner needle, theneedle shield further including a reset surface aligned with a hub resetsurface for engagement therewith to allow reuse of the shield in ashielded configuration.